Naturopathic Medicine in Coquitlam

How do we differ from seeing your GP? We are both primary care providers and are trained
extensively in modern medical techniques. However, our focus of treatment utilizes traditional
and natural approaches to healing, treating the patient as an entire person, rather than a
singular disease or symptom. Obtaining a thorough health history in an initial appointment,
along with a physical exam and possibly further lab testing, allows us to understand the patient
and their health process, and therefore tailor treatment based on all factors contributing to
their concern.

By understanding the root cause of the disease we can target progress rather
than symptom management, and educate our patients to enable them to feel more
empowered about their healing process. Treatment can include nutritional or lifestyle changes,
supplementation, botanical medicine, acupuncture, physical therapy, intravenous or injection
therapies and medical prescriptions when indicated.

Seven Naturopathic Principles:

First do no Harm (Primum Non Nocere)

Use methods and substances with the least risk of side effects, and harmful suppression of symptoms. Use the least force necessary to diagnose and treat illness.

The Healing Power of Nature: Vis Medicatrix Nature

Every person has an inherent ability to heal themselves of their ailment. Naturopathic Doctors recognize and harness this ability.

Treat the Cause (Tolle Causam)

Naturopathic Doctors strive to find the true cause of illness, remove obstacles to cure, and address the underlying disease with personalized treatment rather than suppress symptoms.

Doctor as Teacher (Docere)

Knowledge is power. Naturopathic Doctors educate their patients on their options towards successful recovery, enabling the patient to feel empowered about their health journey.

Treat the Whole Person (Tolle Totum)

Naturopathic Doctors recognize the human body as a complex, interconnected system that works synergistically to both create and rid the body of disease in each individual. Naturopathic doctors, therefore, treat the patient rather than the disease.

FAQ

What can I expect in my first appointment?

Initial visits are one hour long and address you primary health concerns. A thorough health history is taken regarding these concerns and physical exams may be performed based on this history. Further lab testing may be ordered to help guide the case or diagnose conditions. Treatment may begin in your first appointment with follow up appointments in 1-4 weeks.

What’s the difference between a homeopath and naturopath?

Homeopathy is one of the many modalities that ND’s are trained in, a homeopath exclusively treats with homeopathy. Naturopathic doctors are licensed practitioners in British Columbia, while Homeopaths are an unregulated profession.

Which health conditions benefit from Naturopathic Medicine?

Naturopathic Doctors are primary care providers and therefore can help treat anything from a common cold to chronic health conditions. Dr. Galuska has a special interest in Sports Medicine, Digestion, Autoimmune disease, fatigue and pain management.

Is there is difference between a Naturopathic Doctor and Naturopath?

Yes, Naturopathic Doctors are a regulated health care profession in British Columbia and “naturopaths” are not. Although most people refer to their ND as “their naturopath”, make sure to check your practitioners credentials to ensure they are regulated to work in that region, are licensed, and went to a board certified naturopathic school.

Is it covered under my health benefits?

Yes, it is covered under most extended health benefits, but the amount varies from plan to plan. Make sure to check with your provider before making an appointment, as we do direct billing!

How do I know if Dr. Galuska will be the right fit for me?

Dr. Galuska offers free 15 minute consultations to allow you some time to assess whether she is the right fit for you, and also that Dr. Galuska can assess whether she can help your unique case.